From the very first menstruation, we women experience monthly cramps, swelling and other related inconveniences - after all, menstruation is a part of life. But they can hinder romantic getaways, trips to the beach and other experiences that require carefree physical activity. While there are no ways to stop your period out of the blue, once it starts, there are a few things you can try to reduce the flow. And for those cases where it is not really time to have your period, medicines are available to prevent it. Skip to the first step for more information.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Postpone the Cycle
Step 1. Get a prescription for birth control pills
If you are already using them or are interested in starting the pill, it is possible to use it to delay your period so that it does not occur at an inappropriate time. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is safe to delay your period using this method, as long as your gynecologist has certified your fitness for the pill.
- Talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking contraceptives, given your health situation.
- Birth control pills have side effects on some women, including an increased risk of blood clots and other health problems. Find out before deciding to take the pill.
Step 2. Skip the inactive pills in the blister
A series of regular pills is designed to be similar to the menstrual cycle. There are usually 21 hormone pills (containing hormones that control your cycle) and 7 placebo pills that do not contain hormones. In a normal cycle, when you take placebo pills, you bleed. By skipping the placebos and moving straight to the next set of hormone pills, you will avoid bleeding.
- The blood caused by placebo pills is not the same as in regular menstruation. It is just a reaction to the blocking of hormone intake.
- Some women notice spots when they skip placebos. In any case, they should stop once the body gets used to the regular intake of hormones.
Step 3. Go back to regular pill taking when you are ready to resume your period
After the big event, you should go back to taking the pills as normal. In case you prefer not to, to block the cycle altogether, consider requesting a prescription for continuous birth control pills.
Method 2 of 3: Stop Menstruation
Step 1. Decide if you want to stop the cycle completely
The only way to really control your menstrual cycle is by taking menstrual suppression medicines, which is a type of contraceptive that limits your cycle to a couple of times a year or blocks it altogether. If you just want your period to avoid ruining an important event, then this therapy may not be what you are looking for. Either way, menstrual suppression drugs are a viable avenue for women who simply don't want to have periods anymore.
- It may be a suitable choice for women with long, painful periods who periodically keep them home from school or work.
- Other women simply hate having periods, and resort to menstrual suppression to put an end to the hated monthly flow.
Step 2. Consult your gynecologist for the various possibilities
Medicines for menstrual suppression, or continuous birth control, are available by prescription only. For more information you should speak to your gynecologist to find out your suitability for this type of therapy.
- Certain forms of continuous birth control allow you to have your period every 3-4 months, while others block it for years indefinitely.
- Some continuous birth control pills come in pills, but you can also use puncture or other methods.
Step 3. Understand the associated risk
Menstrual suppression is a relatively modern phenomenon, and it has not yet been tested long enough to know the long-term effects on the body. Since it interferes with natural bodily processes, it is not something to be taken lightly. Before choosing continuous contraceptive, investigate thoroughly and be sure to inform yourself about all the potential risks.
Method 3 of 3: Try Natural Methods to Restrain the Flow
Step 1. Use sanitary pads instead of tampons
Some women find that tampons help flow - and finish - their periods faster than tampons. Try using synthetic or cotton pads next time. The difference may be minimal, but your period should last a little less.
Step 2. Try nettle foods
Believe it or not, it has long been thought that nettle helps to shorten and lighten menstruation. You can prepare soups with nettles, but if you prefer to avoid cooking them, you could also take them as a supplement.
Step 3. Try the “shepherd's bag”
It is another natural remedy that can limit menstrual flow. It is a plant traditionally used to treat long periods and menstrual cramps. Look for supplements containing shepherd's purse at organic retailers.
Step 4. Avoid processed foods
Menstrual problems can be made worse by a diet high in refined sugars, refined flours, and other processed foods and ingredients. Try to avoid these foods throughout the month, but especially the week before your period.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, olive oil and whole foods will promote good health, and some women have also found shorter cycles
Step 5. Train as much as possible
Women who exercise have lighter cycles than those who are more sedentary. Throughout the month, including the period of your period, do a lot of aerobic exercises, and include some muscle exercises as well.
